Software Systems Co-op
Prospective Students
The SOSY Co-op program is an optional opportunity for undergraduate students to gain paid work experience in a professional environment. To ensure success, we recommend that SOSY Co-op students have prior experiences outside the classroom, such as part-time jobs, volunteer work, or involvement in clubs, before applying for Co-op positions in their first term. Previous experience, whether paid or unpaid, is important for Co-op employers when evaluating applicants. Participating in Co-op is a great way to gain experience at various renowned companies.
Here are some of the organizations where SOSY Co-op students have worked: Electronic Arts, Google, Microsoft, SAP, Intel, Amazon, LinkedIn, and Samsung.
Students interested in the co-op program should apply two terms prior to their desired work term, ideally when they have between 30 and 80 credit hours. Starting your application early improves your chances of approval and ensures you're fully prepared for your co-op experience.
We offer two opportunities each term to begin the program (please refer to the table below). Once accepted, new students must complete Co-op 100: Orientation (3–4 hours) and the Co-op 101: Prep course (7 weeks, 2–3 hours per week). The Prep course provides support for resumes and cover letters, along with coaching from your faculty's Co-op Career Advisors.
After completing these courses and fulfilling all Prep term requirements, you will be eligible to apply for co-op jobs in the following term. Acceptance into the program does not guarantee a Co-op work term. Students need to apply for posted positions actively, and employers determine who to interview and hire.
Please note that you are expected to complete three co-op work terms before graduating. It is important to know that you cannot graduate while on a co-op term. Successful completion of the program will earn you a Co-op designation on your final transcript.
| Work in Summer 2026 | Work in Fall 2026 | Work in Spring 2027 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application Deadline | September 1 OR October 19, 2025 | January 4 OR February 22, 2026 | May 10 OR June 28, 2026 |
| New Student Term Co-op 100: Orientation Co-op 101: Prep |
Fall 2025 | Spring 2026 | Summer 2026 |
| Seeking Term (Applying for jobs) |
Spring 2026 | Summer 2026 | Fall 2026 |
Software Systems Student
The Software Systems Co-op program is designed for full-time (minimum of 9 units) undergraduate and post-baccalaureate diploma students. Transfer students, direct entry high school students, international students, and mature students are all welcome to apply to the program. You can apply at any time throughout the year to Software Systems Co-op and as early as your first year. In order for a student to be eligible for the program, they need to have a declared major in Software Systems and a minimum CGPA of 2.5.
To complete the program and obtain a Co-op Designation, undergraduate students must be willing and able to commit to a minimum of 3 Co-op work semesters prior to graduation, respectively. Co-op students alternate studies and work semesters before returning for at least one final semester of academic courses. (PBD and Second Degree students should contact their coordinator after being admitted to confirm their specific requirements.)
Academic Requirements
- 30 - 60 units: you are eligible to apply
- over 90 units: connect with a SOSY co-op coordinator
Keep in mind:
- Complete the NEW student requirements at least two semesters before undertaking your first co-op work term.
- Complete at least 3 work terms before completing your degree.
Work Permits (International Students)
International students are required to obtain a valid Co-op work permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) before applying to SFU Co-op jobs. Once accepted into the Co-op program, you will be issued a letter to include in your work permit application. We recommend applying for the work permit as early as possible, as can be lengthy.